Mandela Washington Fellowship 2027 for Young African Leaders | Application Details
The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the flagship programme of the U.S. Government’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI).
Established in 2014, the Fellowship has brought nearly 7,800 young leaders from every country in Sub-Saharan Africa to the United States for academic and leadership training.
The Fellowship is designed for accomplished young African leaders who have demonstrated leadership, innovation and a record of making a positive impact in their communities and countries.
- Programme: Mandela Washington Fellowship
- Initiative: Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI)
- Application Opens: 22 September 2026
- Eligible Region: Sub-Saharan Africa
- Age Range: 25–35 years
Also Apply: LEAD Fellowship 2026 Application Form | Leadership for Equity Advocacy and Development Fellowship
2027 FELLOWSHIP TRACKS
Eligible applicants may apply to one of the following tracks:
1. Business and Trade
For young African leaders working in entrepreneurship, business development, trade and economic opportunity.
2. Emerging Technologies
For leaders using innovative and emerging technologies to address challenges and create opportunities across Africa.
3. Governance and Security
For leaders engaged in governance, civic leadership, public service and security-related issues.
FELLOWSHIP COMPONENTS
Leadership Institutes
Fellows participate in six-week Leadership Institutes hosted by U.S. colleges and universities. The Institutes provide academic and leadership training while giving Fellows opportunities to engage with their host communities and exchange knowledge and best practices.
Professional Development Experiences (PDEs)
Fellows may apply for Professional Development Experiences with private, public and nonprofit organisations for up to six weeks.
These experiences enable Fellows and U.S. host organisations to exchange knowledge, explore shared challenges and broaden their professional perspectives.
Reciprocal Exchanges
U.S. citizens can apply to implement projects in Sub-Saharan African countries and continue collaborative work with Mandela Washington Fellowship alumni.
These partnerships are designed to build lasting professional relationships, expand networks and markets, and promote mutual understanding.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALUMNI
Mandela Washington Fellowship alumni continue to benefit from professional development, networking and collaboration opportunities after completing the Fellowship.
These opportunities may be offered both in person and virtually, with support from the U.S. Department of State and affiliated partners.
WHO CAN APPLY?
The Fellowship is intended for accomplished young African leaders between 25 and 35 years old who have demonstrated leadership, innovation and positive impact in their communities and countries.
Applicants should also review the specific eligibility requirements for their preferred Fellowship track before applying.
Also Apply: Call for Applications: Giving Joy Grant 2026 | $500 for Women to Launch or Expand Businesses
APPLICATION
Applications for the 2027 Mandela Washington Fellowship will open on:
22 SEPTEMBER 2026
Interested applicants should review the official programme information and detailed track requirements before submitting their applications.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
The application opening date is 22 September 2026. The specific application deadline and detailed eligibility requirements should be confirmed on the official Fellowship website when the 2027 application cycle opens.